Some Like It Hot (1959)

Some Like It Hot is a 1959 American comedy classic directed by Bill Wilder. It stars Marylin Monroe as Sugar Kane Kowalczyk, the beautiful but ditsy and gullible lead singer of a travelling all-girl band. Joe and Jerry, played by Tony Curtis and Jack Lemmon, respectively, are two unfortunate musicians who witness the Valentine's Day Massacre. They decide to dress up as women as go on tour with the all-girl band in order to conceal their identities and make some money.

This film is mainly a comedy, and it plays through very well. Even though some of the jokes are physical/slapstick type of humor, there are some legitimately funny lines that stick out and seem to cross generations in their impact. One will find themselves chuckling as they watch the unfortunate duo of Joe and Jerry travel to Florida where their story reaches its climax.

This film can be recommended to anyone as the humor is innocent and often easy to get. There are some violent scenes, but the violence is loosely portrayed, probably partially due to the fact that in 1959, squib technology was not where it is today. Special effects aside, this film is definitely a worthy addition to one's comedy collection, if not only just for sentimental value.

Once Were Warriors (1994)

Once Were Warriors is a 1994 Maori language film that deals with the troubles of a modern Maori family. As often experienced by people descended from tribal culture, they find themselves lost in life without a real link to their heritage.

Directed by Lee Tamahori and starring Rena Owen as the triumphant Beth Heke and Temeura Morrison as the abusive yet troubled Jake Heke, Once Were Warriors offers a story of retribution and the power of one's ancestral culture. Jake abuses his family, especially his wife, as he drinks away all of their money. Beth, just wanting to protect her children, puts up with the abuse. While struggling with this, Beth is also plagued by feelings of having no connection with her ancestors. Maoris often find themselves losing their culture in the melting pot of modern society.

This film was powerful, but not one I would watch more than once. It's a great story of courage, especially when Beth finds strength in returning to her culture and confronts Jake about his abusive ways. However, the film is not enjoyable as it is filled with disturbing imagery and sad themes. It's one to experience, but perhaps not one to enjoy.

Cinema Paradiso (1988)

1988's Cinema Paradiso is an Italian language film directed and written by Giuseppe Tornatore. It's a film that manages to contain the whole of Tornatore's life within a couple hours through skillful use of artistic direction. From a daydreaming, movie-obsessed child to a successful film maker, we follow the life of Toto, a boy who must lose everything he's had in order to find out what he is capable of.

This film is inspirational. Although Toto is chastised by his mother for constantly watching movies and wanting to be at the theater, he continues to follow his passion. Eventually, he follows the advice of his new mentor, Alfredo the projector operator. He leaves his hometown, unsure of what will be left when he returns. This film shows that bravery is necessary for one to find themselves, and that one shouldn't be so afraid of losing their home, as places must change with each generation.

I would definitely recommend this film for anyone who feels that they are the black sheep of the family. That is, anyone who feels that they have found their calling but are constantly told that this is wrong by their family. Sometimes, one just needs to let go of everything and everyone so that they can finally have the freedom to pursue their goals.